A worker measures the old Lolita's sign before ordering the new Badger Treats sign. / Maureen Wallenfang/The Post-Crescent

Written by

Maureen Wallenfang

Post-Crescent staff writer

Reader question: Is there a new business going in the small restaurant location on Badger Avenue in Appleton? It was formerly Lolita’s and painted pink. It was just recently repainted red and the “for sale” message is no longer on the marquee.

Answer: That building at 1025 N. Badger Ave. was sold in October and is in the process of becoming Badger Treats, an ice cream shop and diner.

The Weinberger family of Appleton bought the building and will operate the restaurant.

“It’s a complete new start,” said Kevin Weinberger, a member of the family who has a business background. “We are opening in mid to late January.”

The investment of buying and fixing up the building, including painting, repairing a furnace and removing a rotting deck, will be “several hundred thousand,” he said.

They named it after the street, but it’s obvious they’re big Wisconsin fans as well. Besides the red and white color scheme and badger memorabilia on the walls, they’ll celebrate famous people who came from the area.

“I don’t think you can go wrong with Wisconsin in Wisconsin,” said Brent Weinberger, Kevin’s brother who will be the general manager.

The brothers say Badger Treats will be a place that welcomes neighbors, families and students from the nearby Appleton West High School.